Green Line Performing Arts Center, the latest addition to the Arts Block, is a vital new theater venue and rehearsal space to support the arts across Chicago’s South Side, and serves as a platform for artistic expression and public gatherings, contributing to the cultural and economic vibrancy of the Washington Park neighborhood. The center establishes another much-needed professional theater venue on Chicago’s South Side for incubating and supporting performing artists and theater ensembles, along with programming to train residents with interests in theater design and production. Designed by Morris Architects Planners in collaboration with Theaster Gates, a UChicago faculty member, artist, and founder and former director of Arts + Public Life, the Green Line Performing Arts Center continues the growth of the Arts Block, a vibrant collection of cultural and commercial spaces on historic Garfield Boulevard across from the Green Line’s Garfield stop in Washington Park. The high-tech facility is housed in four renovated storefronts, which at various points in history have been jazz and entertainment venues, including a restaurant with a live orchestra, a series of music clubs, and most famously Rhumboogie, a nightclub owned by boxing great Joe Louis. At 6,600 square feet, the center includes the E & A Theatre, a black box venue seating more than 80 people; the Harris Studio, a separate rehearsal and performance space; and a lobby and outdoor courtyard for public programs and exhibitions including film screenings.
